These are the Stanley Cup Playoffs Power Rankings after Sunday night’s action:
1. Florida Panthers
Since their game three win over the Maple Leafs, the best version of the Panthers has shown up. They have completely dominated the Hurricanes through the first three games of the Eastern Conference finals and could finish off the sweep tonight. The Hurricanes simply seem like no match for the defending Stanley Cup champs.
2. Edmonton Oilers
Their series against Dallas didn’t get off to a good start, but after losing game one, they bounced back with a 3-0 shutout win. The Series shifted to Edmonton, where the Oilers took full advantage of home ice and beat up on the Stars 6-1. Over the past two games, the Oilers have outscored Dallas 9-1, and could be ready to pull away in this series.
3. Dallas Stars
Game one against the Oilers was close, but the Stars eventually pulled away and took a 1-0 series lead. In game two, they were completely shut down, though, and in game three, the Oilers beat them 6-1. Game four is now a must-win for them so they can avoid falling down 3-1 in the series.
4. Carolina Hurricanes
Carolina won their series over the Devils pretty handily. Then they won their series over the Capitals just as handily, and the Capitals were the best team in the Eastern Conference all season long. None of that has mattered against the Panthers, though. The Canes have been completely outmatched and could see their season end tonight in game four.
